Building Your Network

Student Organizations

The University of Southern California hosts a number of student organizations reflecting various interests, giving all students the opportunity to develop leadership and interpersonal skills. Of those student organizations, Leventhal School of Accounting recognizes six organizations: Accounting Society (AS), Ascend, Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting (ALPFA), Beta Alpha Psi (BAY), National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), and Student Honor Council. All of these organizations are important in cultivating academic and professional development for Leventhal students.

The Accounting Society provides accounting students with opportunities to become familiar and involved with the accounting profession while still in school. As one of USC's strong links with the business world, it provides an excellent opportunity for career planning. Activities include guest speakers, social events with CPA firms and industry leaders, firm tours, volunteer programs, athletic events and exchange programs with other schools.

Ascend is the premier non-profit professional associate that enables its members, corporate partners and the community to realize the leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations. Ascend USC is one of the largest student chapters nationally, with over 100 members. Students are actively involved in events ranging from professional mentoring sessions to resume workshops and community service opportunities, as well as the annual recognition dinner.

ALPFA is a leading national organization for professionals and students in accounting, business, finance and related fields with approximately 40 regional chapters. Our chapter offers a wide range of activities throughout the year which include case competitions, networking events, scholarships, student workshops, community service, professional and student mixers, mentoring programs, internships and an annual convention. Membership in ALPFA-USC is open to any student in good academic standing who shares the core values that include professional development, relationship building, inclusiveness and integrity.

The Iota Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, a co-ed national honors fraternity for financial information professionals, bases its membership on academic achievement in accounting, finance, and information courses. The chapter fosters closer relations among professionals, faculty, and students to encourage higher standards of education and encourages student involvement in campus activities as well as academic pursuits. Beta Alpha Psi's activities include free tutoring for introductory accounting courses at USC, hosting various networking functions between members and professionals in the accounting, finance, and information system profession, community service projects, tours of firm's offices, and social activities.

The National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA) is a nationwide membership organization with the primary purpose of developing, encouraging, and serving as a resource for African-Americans and other minorities in the accounting profession. Since 1969, NABA has been a leader in building leaders that shape the future of accounting and finance professions. The student-run organization aims to provide students with professional development skills through participating in workshops, social events, and speaker engagements.

The Student Honor Council's central purpose is to support the Student Honor Code by promoting academic integrity, ethical behavior, and intellectual honesty within the Leventhal School of Accounting. The Student Honor Council is composed of up to 25 student members who are interviewed and selected by the Oversight Committee. All full-time students in good academic standing who are pursuing degrees offered by the Leventhal School of Accounting are eligible to apply for membership.